GRINSELL & Sons, 1889 – Victorian solid silver and cut crystal decanter

A superb cut crystal decanter with a sterling silver mount, hallmarked by the silversmith John Grinsell & Sons.
The plain sterling silver mount features a meticulously fitted neck and spout, a handle, and a hinged lid surmounted by a spherical finial. It is adorned with a finely engraved monogram in neo-Gothic script, likely BK. The lid reveals a removable crystal ice pack with a sterling silver handle and lid, allowing for the chilling of beverages without dilution.
Each component of this decanter is hallmarked, including the lids, attesting to its authenticity and quality.
The robust crystal body boasts a deep, entirely hand-cut diamond-point pattern. The faceted cut creates a multitude of plays of light and reflections, showcasing the skill of late 19th-century glassmakers. The base is decorated with a star-cut motif.

Hallmarks

Horizontal ink mark;
Date letter P;
Lion passant;
Silversmith.

Dimensions

Height: 27 cm.

Diameter (base): 15 cm.

Width: 20 cm.

Gross weight: 2.196 kg.

Condition Report
Excellent condition, both crystal and silver.

GRINSELL & Sons
Birmingham, London, Glasgow (active 1861–1992)

Founded in late 1861, John Grinsell & Sons emerged after the dissolution of the Grinsell & Bourne partnership in 1874. Specializing in fine silverware, it quickly gained prestige thanks to the quality and originality of its creations. The firm was particularly renowned for its expertise in crafting decorative pieces, where objects made of precious materials such as crystal, glass, ivory, or gemstones were combined with sterling silver. This mastery of assembly allowed them to create objects that were both refined and functional, from tableware to decorative items.

In addition to decorative pieces, the firm was also famous for its silver tableware, such as bowls, boxes, candelabras, and home accessories, which combined elegance, precision, and innovation. Each piece produced by John Grinsell & Sons was a true work of art, created with a constant pursuit of perfection and aesthetics.

In 1905, the company was incorporated as John Grinsell & Sons Ltd. After its acquisition by Barker Ellis & Co. Ltd in 1992, the company ceased operations, but its legacy lives on through pieces that remain highly sought after by collectors and are held in prestigious collections. Pieces by this silversmith can be found, in particular, in the collections of the National Trust in England.

Ref: LRK3AYR22I